1. Cook the Pasta: Achieving Al Dente Perfection

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook: Cook according to the package directions, until the pasta is al dente – cooked through but still firm to the bite.
4. Drain: Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken Bites: Seasoning and Cooking

1. Season Chicken: In a medium bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and shimmering.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Add Garlic: Add half of the minced garlic to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Set Aside: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: A Rich and Flavorful Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In the same skillet (no need to clean it), melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and butter.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Bringing it All Together

1. Add Pasta: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Add Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
3. Stir in Parsley: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.
4. Combine: Toss gently to combine the chicken and pasta with the sauce.

5. Serve: Enjoying Your Delicious Creation

1. Serve Hot: Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is creamy.
2. Garnish: Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.